What is what does it mean when your tears are yellow?

Yellow tears can indicate a few potential underlying issues, most commonly related to an excess of bilirubin. Here's a breakdown:

• Jaundice: This is the most frequent cause. Jaundice occurs when there's a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. In adults, it usually signifies a problem with the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. In newborns, it is common and often resolves within a few days or weeks.

• Liver%20Problems: Conditions affecting the liver, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer, can impair its ability to process bilirubin, leading to a buildup and causing yellow tears (as well as yellowing of the skin and eyes).

• Gallbladder%20Issues: Gallstones or other gallbladder problems can obstruct the bile duct, preventing bilirubin from being excreted properly and causing it to accumulate.

• Bilirubin%20Metabolism: Genetic disorders affecting bilirubin metabolism (like Gilbert's syndrome) might sometimes cause mild jaundice, but this is much more frequently noticed in the skin and whites of the eyes, rather than just the tears.

• Dehydration: In very rare cases, severe dehydration can concentrate the bilirubin in the body's fluids, including tears, making them appear slightly yellow.

If you notice that your tears are consistently yellow, it's crucial to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Don't self-diagnose.